Ranney Junior Named American Red Cross Youth Volunteer Of The Year

“Even if you’re 16-years-old, you can still make a difference,” says Ranney School junior Diane Scavelli. And that’s exactly what this high school student has been doing for the past several years – making a difference in people’s lives as a youth volunteer with the American Red Cross’ Jersey Coast Chapter Youth Council.

Because of her exemplary service and contributions to the American Red Cross, Diane has been named the American Red Cross Youth Volunteer of the Year. She will be honored at the organization’s Inaugural Hometown Heroes Luncheon on Friday, March 26 at Branches Catering in West Long Branch.

According to Leanne Caffrey, American Red Cross Event Coordinator of Hometown Heroes, “Diane Scavelli has demonstrated exceptional performance and extensive personal commitment since becoming a Youth Council member in 2007. She is a positive youth volunteer for our chapter who has increased our Youth Council membership by 20% and is also a participant in 90% of all Youth Council activities. Alongside being a youth volunteer, Diane has completed all disaster courses at the chapter and chairs numerous committees.”

Since joining the chapter, Diane has also chaired the Youth Council’s blood drive, bringing in 68 brand new blood donors to the American Red Cross, as well as securing food and refreshments for the event. She also participates in the chapter’s ‘Reassurance Program,” making calls to the elderly who are alone and in need of comfort and support.

Diane’s work with the American Red Cross is a family affair. “My brother was involved in the Red Cross Youth Chapter when he was in high school, and I was really interested in the work they did, so I joined. I love being involved with the American Red Cross, because they do so much to help others. I really like the fact that they’re an

international organization – no matter where you go in the world, the American Red Cross is always there first,” says Diane proudly.

Like all Ranney students, Diane manages to successfully balance a rigorous academic course load with extracurricular activities. She has been on the honor and high honor roll since ninth grade, and also serves as a member of the varsity tennis team, secretary for the school’s Habitat for Humanity chapter and member of the Science Club and Model UN.

States Dr. Lawrence S. Sykoff, Ranney Head of School, “Diane is a perfect example of Ranney students who heed the call of community service year-round. From the moment our students enter our doors, they are encouraged to find meaning in something greater than themselves.”

Last year, Diane’s outstanding community service efforts earned her the Gold Award by the President of the United States Council on Service and Civic Participation. To receive the Gold Level Award, volunteers must perform 250 hours or more of service in a 12- month period.

Despite all the accolades, Diane isn’t letting it go to her head. “I really love working with the Youth Council. It’s given me leadership skills I didn’t have before. And, I love helping people and the American Red Cross is a terrific organization that does just that,” she says. Spoken like a 16-year old continuing to make a difference in her community and beyond.

For additional information on all Ranney School news, please contact the Communications Department at communications@ranneyschool.org.